The National Pork Board (NPB) works on behalf of nearly 60,000 pig farmers in the United States to enhance the productivity and profitability of their swine enterprises through innovative research, promotion and education. By strategically funding critical research projects and providing valuable educational resources for both producers and consumers of pork, NPB ensures that the U.S. pork industry remains competitive and sustainable domestically and abroad. One of NPB’s key initiatives is to support pig farmers in adopting best practices and cutting-edge technologies, thereby improving production efficiency and animal welfare.
Research is at the heart of NPB’s mission because it drives continuous improvement and innovation within the industry. By identifying, monitoring and addressing emerging issues within the U.S. pork industry, NPB proactively mitigates industry-wide challenges. For instance, NPB invests in research to combat swine diseases and promote biosecurity measures, working with FFAR on several of these efforts in addition to other research initiatives. Additionally, NPB is committed to environmental stewardship, exploring ways to reduce the industry’s carbon footprint and enhance sustainability practices. By staying ahead of these issues, NPB ensures long-term viability of U.S. pork production. This focus on research ensures that producers are equipped with the knowledge and tools needed to meet consumer demands, enhance animal health and operate sustainably.
Through rigorous scientific inquiry and strategic collaborative partnerships, NPB addresses critical challenges and opportunities in swine production. Partnering with FFAR through programs like the Wean-to-Harvest Biosecurity Program and the International Consortium on Antimicrobial Stewardship (ICASA) significantly amplifies the impact of NPB’s research endeavors. Collaborations such as these allow NPB to leverage additional expertise and resources, leading to more comprehensive, coordinated and impactful research outcomes. For U.S. pork producers, this means access to innovative solutions and strategies that improve production practices and market competitiveness. Ultimately, NPB’s commitment to research fosters a more resilient and forward-thinking pork industry, benefiting producers and consumers alike.
Dr. Heather Fowler completed her Veterinary Medical degree at the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine in 2010, a Master’s in Public Health in Applied Biostatistics and Epidemiology at the Yale School of Public Health in 2011, and a PhD in Environmental and Occupational Hygiene from the University of Washington School of Public Health in 2017. She is board certified in veterinary preventive medicine and has expertise in the areas of zoonotic disease, public health, worker safety and health, and One Health application. In the summer of 2017, Dr. Fowler began work as the Director of Producer and Public Health at the National Pork Board where she oversees public health as well as occupational safety and health issues as they relate to swine production in the United States.